Virtually Erskine

BFD Virtually Erskine brings the recorded essence of Peter Erskine's two personal DW drum kits into your DAW as a comprehensive sample library for BFD3. Recorded in Erskine's own studio by John Emrich of Cymbal Masters, the pack captures nearly 15GB of articulation data representing decades of refined technique across jazz, fusion, pop and rock contexts.

The library includes three kicks, five toms, and two snares, each sampled across multiple dynamic layers and striking techniques. Seven cymbals, one hi-hat, and a cowbell round out the tonal palette, with selected instruments available in brushed versions that significantly expand textural possibilities for slower material and intimate settings. The meticulous sampling approach means velocity response remains responsive and natural rather than quantized into rigid bands.

Sonically, Erskine's kits are defined by articulate attack and controlled sustain - drums that project without washing out in a mix. The cymbals retain definition even under compression, a hallmark of professional kit selection and room treatment. This sonic character works particularly well for producers seeking drums that maintain clarity in dense arrangements without requiring extreme processing.

The expansion suits engineers working across multiple genres who value authentic timbre over pure programmability. While BFD3's editing capabilities remain available, Virtually Erskine's strength lies in its captured character rather than its potential for manipulation. For sessions requiring the sound of a highly experienced, classically trained drummer recorded in optimal conditions, this library delivers that specificity reliably.